The third release and second full album from DC4 is 2007’s Explode. Depending on where you look, you may see two different covers. Fear not, the album was not changed or re-released; however, the guys did change companies so in 2009 the album took on a different face. There was also a line-up change, with Rowan Robertson taking over lead guitar duties for Hyland Church. This is Rowan’s debut album with DC4 and I can tell you right now shit’s about to get real.

​The album title is very fitting. Containing ten songs, Explode is definitely the band’s hardest release to date. The first song on the album is the title track and, in typical DC4 fashion, is killer. What a difference a new guitarist makes! Am I saying Church sucked? Absolutely not! However, many pale in comparison to Robertson. He’s extremely gifted and has been playing guitar since he was very young; he brings something to the table that others just aren’t able to. That’s what makes him who he is, and he certainly brings a more metal edge to DC4.

​“Candy Caine” (song 2) is probably the most popular song on the album amongst most fans. It’s a feel-good-she-fucked-me-over song and, in the rock world, what could be better? I can see why it is so popular and, though I have never seen DC4 perform live, I imagine this being a real crowd pleaser. Vocally, Jeff is a chameleon; he adapts his voice to any song style, hitting every note effortlessly.

2009 cover

​ “Disturbed” (song 4) is a great display of his vocal range. One of my favorites on the album, which is surprising since it is also the shortest song at 3:36 (we all know how I enjoy the long songs). This song just packs that much of a punch so the length is irrelevant. The next song, “God Complex”, sends a powerful message. In this case you need to hear it for yourself and draw your own conclusions, but personally I can totally relate to what the guys are saying and have a few people in mind who I could dedicate this song to.

​I’m going to skip down to the final track, “Hate Parade” (song 10). Another great one, it’s the closest to a ballad this album gets. The guitars and vocals are, of course, top notch. Matt and Shawn do a fantastic job of adding to the overall aura of the song’s buildup, which is one of the best on the album. “Long Hard Road to Lost” (song 9) is another personal favorite. Rowan’s riffs add something extra to the track, and Matt works the hell out of that bass. In listening to it, I got the impression this is a favored track by the band as well. I may be wrong about that; I am just going by the intensity with which everyone plays. We may as well get to my favorite song on the album. It was tough choosing a favorite, as every song stands out in one way or another.

​ My favorite track is “This Is What You Wanted” (song 8). I can’t even pinpoint a specific reason why this is my favorite; I just absolutely love everything about it. From the bass line to the vocals, this track is frequently on repeat. Yes, this album is “Anna’s iPod Approved” just like all the previous DC4 albums. Just to clarify something for all of you, an album doesn’t make it on my iPod just because I like the band. Albums must meet certain criteria to even be considered for my iPod, regardless of how great I think the band is. People would probably be very surprised to see who makes the cut.

​Matt leads off on the track “Cabin Fever” (song 7). I love songs with a strong bass line, and this one doesn’t disappoint. This is just an all around great metal song, just like “Experiment” (song 3) and “Rock and Roll Disease” (song 6). The Duncan brothers are amazingly talented; with that much talent in one room it can be difficult to find that perfect fit to round out the band. I think the addition of Rowan to the lineup is one of the best choices DC4 could have ever made. Some may disagree, but the music speaks for itself and that is what matters.

You may purchase this album directly from the DC4 web store by clicking here http://dc4store.bigcartel.com/. Right now this album is available at a special price: Volume One, Explode, and Electric Ministry can be purchased together for $20 USD. For those of you who prefer digital, please visit any of the links below.